Winter White

W just got through a week of early winter here in Northwestern New Jersey. An early snow kept us without power for 48 hours, the longest for me in my lifetime. I did not do as well as my husband. We did get through it and were luckier than many other people. Hopefully everyone has power by now. I was looking at pictures of my recent listings and realized that WINTER WHITE is the color of the week.! All these items are currently in my Etsy Shop.

Wedding Jewelry * Special Order

I just completed a wedding set, bracelet and earrings, for a bride in CA. The bride specified the colors of Swarovski pearls and crystals to be used and we changed the design just a tad. The set is simply STUNNING!

Handmade Faire - Summer of Love 2010

It's been a while since I have done a craft show so I am looking forward to Saturday to participate in the Handmade Faire in Medford, NJ. If you live nearby stop by. EVERYTHING is handmade!

Bead Weaving

I enjoy creating using a variety of bead techniques. One technique I enjoy is bead weaving as it can be very intricate. The cross pictured here is made from 100 Swarovski crystals in different shades of blue plus it is reversible with another colorway on the opposite side. Also added at tiny seed beads between each crystal which makes the cross more interesting and delicate. The color combinations are endless when Swarovski crystals are used. I can see this cross made up in clear crystals for a bride or even for a confirmation or communion. So many beads and so little time!

Ice Cream!

I was thinking about ice cream and decided to make some yummy earrings today. The flavors are Chocolate Chip Mint, Neoploitian and Berries and Cream. This woven pattern lends itself to so many variations and I LOVE making these earrings. The Swarovski crystals come in so many colors, it's fun to mix and match them. Are you ready for a bowl of ice cream tonight?

She's Awaiting Spring

I just made this cute necklace from some small things I had. A while back I had come across some really pretty mother of pearl rectangles and ovals and I thought, 'blank space' to decorate. The one used here is bordered with a very intricate etched design. The brass frame has this cute little bird and she is looking at something. The 'something' I added are tiny Swarovski crystal drops in pink, opal and olive. So then the question was 'What is she going to suspend from?'. I had this really pretty old chain and I added some Swarovski bicones just to dress it it up a bit. I think she turned out pretty nice.

Will I EVER be Happy with my Photos!

I went for my photography lesson and the instructor said my pictures were really good! This is not what I expected but he did make me feel good. After reviewing my camera settings and experimenting with some light sources I ended up purchasing some lights and a board that the light clamp onto. I guess I just want that 'instant gratification' and have ALL mt pictures be perfect. Not so. Now I need to play and experiment with the light sources and my props. I took lots of pictures today and am only happy with one! No easy solutions here. I am not going to give up and I hope to challenge myself each day using my new toy. Wish me luck!

Thinking Flowers Today

Today I was in the mood for flowers. I am already tired of the cold, snow and ice. So instead of cleaning my work room I made some flower earrings from some new supplies I received recently. I think they turned out pretty nice. I like combining the sparkle of the Swarovski crystals with opaque stones. These happen to be vintage and I am loving them.

Just Wanted to Show these Off

I am in love with Swarovski crystals. The crystals come in so many shapes, sizes and colors. I had fun making these earrings from new and vintage beads.